Last updated: 2026-04-20

RELIABILITY SCORE: 63/100 (GOOD)

2025 Mazda CX-90 Reliability Report

Name: 2025 Mazda CX-90
Brand: Mazda

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 scores 63/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 21 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

15.2per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

N/A

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,400–$2,750

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity64/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs40/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity81/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
STEERING (3)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2)

Should You Buy the 2025 Mazda CX-90?

At 63/100, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading.

Its complaint rate of 15.2 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the SUV segment average of 4.1. The most common reports involve electrical system (5).

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (5). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2026 Mazda CX-90, which scored 9 points higher. See also the 2024 Mazda CX-90 for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Low recall count
+5-star NHTSA crash rating

Cons

−Above-average complaint rate for SUV
−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (5 complaints)
−STEERING issues reported (3 complaints)

Compare 2025 Mazda CX-90 With

2025 Toyota Highlander

Reliability: 76/100

Good

2025 Honda Pilot

Reliability: 71/100

Good

2025 KIA Telluride

Reliability: 78/100

Good

2025 Hyundai Palisade

Reliability: 70/100

Good

2025 Ford Explorer

Reliability: 72/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
STEERING (3)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

15.2

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 4.1

LowAvgHigh

Moderate

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2025 Mazda CX-90 Recall Details

2 recalls have been issued for the 2025 Mazda CX-90. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V5680002025-09-02

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024-2025 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEV). The fuel gauge in the instrument cluster may display an inaccurate fuel reading.

Consequence

An inaccurate fuel gauge may result in the vehicle unexpectedly running out of fuel and stalling, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the body control module (BCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 24, 2025. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 6. The manufacturer's number for this recall is 78251. The information in your report suggests that Mazda may have been aware of this issue more than five business days before filing a report with NHTSA. Please be reminded that under Federal law, this agency is to be notified of all safety defect and/or noncompliance decisions within five business days. 49 CFR 573.6 Significant civil penalties can be assessed for this violation.

24V8140002024-10-31

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, STRUCTURE

Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024-2025 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 vehicles equipped with a Dash Electrical Supply Unit (ESU). During vehicle startup, the defroster, seat belt warning, 360° view monitor functions, and the PHEV high-voltage battery cooling system may not function properly.

Consequence

An ESU that does not function properly, increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will reprogram the Dash ESU with improved software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 18, 2024. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 6. Mazda's number for this recall is 7124J.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2025 Mazda CX-90? Check its history first

Every 2025 Mazda CX-90 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2025 Mazda CX-90 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 15.5%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, 3rd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)Unattended Child Reminder Direct Sensing System (No)LATCH Locations (2nd row, 3rd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row, Roof)

PHEV Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 12.7%

Safety Technologies

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Mazda CX-90Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

2025 Mazda CX-90 Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
Repair	Estimated Cost
Tire Pressure Monitor Lamp Diagnosis	$98 – $143
General Diagnosis	$122 – $179
Noise Diagnosis	$122 – $179
Vibration Diagnosis	$122 – $179
No Start Diagnosis	$122 – $179
Pre-Purchase Car Inspection	$183 – $269
Engine Oil Light Diagnosis	$122 – $179
Check Engine Light Diagnosis & Testing	$122 – $179
AC Diagnosis	$122 – $179
Air Conditioning System Leak Inspection	$122 – $179

Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Plug-in Hybrid

25 MPG

Fuel cost: $2,400–$2,750/yr

Fuel only

23–24 city / 27–28 hwy MPG

Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2025 EPA label cycle.

Plug-in Hybrid trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
CX-90 4WD PHEV 2.5L 4-cyl	4-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S8)	24	27	25	$2,750

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2025 Mazda CX-90.

Test hybrid system for error messages and electrical leakage warnings
Check for brake squeaking noise during test drive
Inspect steering for stickiness or binding during turns
Verify forward collision avoidance system functionality
Test vehicle speed control on inclines and during turns
Check tire tread wear for premature wear patterns

2025 Mazda CX-90 Common Problems by Component

21 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)STEERING (3)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)ENGINE (2)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2)SERVICE BRAKES (2)SUSPENSION (1)Other (2)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

5 complaints

Owners of the 2025 Mazda CX-90 frequently report issues with the hybrid system, specifically mentioning electrical leakage and hybrid system malfunctions. Common symptoms include the vehicle becoming disabled, being unable to shift out of park, and receiving critical error messages such as "Hybrid system electrical leakage detected" and "Engine Malfunction." These issues often occur shortly after purchase, with some vehicles experiencing problems within the first few miles or days. Safety implications are noted, with concerns about the vehicle potentially entering limp mode while driving. Multiple owners indicate that the problem persists even after attempted repairs, and there is mention of parts being on backorder.

5 complaints total

STEERING

3 complaints

Owners report steering issues with the 2025 Mazda CX-90, frequently describing a "sticky" or "notchy" feeling, particularly noticeable during turns. Several complaints mention the steering wheel binding or sticking when exiting left turns, especially at speeds between 30 to 50 mph. There are also reports of the steering pulling to the side, requiring significant effort to correct. No specific mileage range is consistently noted, but one owner indicates the problem worsened over a few days. Safety implications include potential loss of control, as described in the reports of steering pull and binding, though no crashes are mentioned.

3 complaints total

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2 complaints

Owners of the 2025 Mazda CX-90 report issues with vehicle speed control, specifically a severe reduction in power under certain conditions. Symptoms include the inability to accelerate beyond certain speeds while climbing inclines, and significant power loss during turns, even when the accelerator is fully depressed. These incidents occur within weeks to months of purchase, with one owner experiencing issues within six weeks and another after five months. Safety implications are noted, as one owner describes a near head-on collision due to failed acceleration while passing, and another reports a dangerous situation while turning in front of oncoming traffic. Prospective buyers should be aware of these patterns, especially when considering the vehicle's performance in mountainous or hilly terrain.

2 complaints total

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2025 Mazda CX-90 report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, particularly in the i-activesense feature. One complaint describes a failure to issue a forward collision warning or proximity alert, resulting in a low-speed crash at less than 12 mph. Another owner reports the i-activesense system, which controls adaptive cruise and lane-keeping functions, disables randomly with a "front radar obstructed" message, despite no visible obstructions. This issue causes sudden deceleration, especially hazardous at highway speeds, and requires restarting the vehicle to resolve. These reports occur within the first few weeks of ownership, indicating early onset of these problems, and highlight potential safety risks due to unexpected system deactivation and lack of collision alerts.

2 complaints total1 crash

ENGINE (2 complaints)

ENGINE

2 complaints

Owners report recurring issues with the 2025 Mazda CX-90's engine and hybrid systems, particularly involving warnings such as "Hybrid System Malfunction" and "Charging System Malfunction." Complaints frequently mention that these warnings lead to reduced acceleration and a complete loss of power, often requiring the vehicle to be towed. One owner experienced these issues as early as 126 miles, while another reported ongoing problems despite dealership visits. These malfunctions create potential safety risks due to unpredictable power loss while driving. Multiple owners describe difficulties in diagnosing the root cause, with dealerships unable to replicate issues or find fault codes.

2 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (2 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

Owners report two distinct issues with the 2025 Mazda CX-90. The first involves the automatic emergency braking system, which unexpectedly activates and brings the vehicle to a stop without apparent cause, as described by one owner who experienced this twice at a railroad crossing. The second issue concerns the cabin air system, where vents blow air over 101 degrees Fahrenheit despite the air conditioning being off and the outside temperature being 55 degrees. This could pose a safety risk due to excessive cabin heat. These complaints do not specify mileage or timeline patterns, but they highlight potential safety implications, particularly concerning unexpected braking and extreme cabin temperatures.

2 complaints total

SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

Owners report two distinct issues with the 2025 Mazda CX-90's brakes. One issue involves automatic braking at lower speeds, which happens approximately three times a week, often on freeway entrances but also in other locations. Another issue is a persistent, extremely loud squeaking noise from the brakes, noticeable even to pedestrians, occurring in vehicles with around 1,100 miles. Multiple owners describe being informed by dealerships that this is a known issue without an available fix. While no crashes or loss of control are reported, some owners express concerns about the brakes' reliability in emergency situations.

2 complaints total

SUSPENSION (1 complaints)

SUSPENSION

1 complaint

2025-03-15

After driving >2000 miles or about a month, I could hear a loud, grunting/grinding noise when accelerating aggressively from 1st to 2nd gear when on EV or gas mode. Brought the vehicle at the dealership service department 4 times already, each time MAZDA Headquarters in California confirmed that this is a known and documented condition. According to Mazda, the grunt noise you’re hearing when the vehicle shifts from first to second gear under medium to aggressive throttle is considered normal operation. It has been determined that this does not affect the drivability or reliability of the vehicle, and it is safe to drive. The transmission is operating as designed and performing within normal parameters. Mazda is continuing to collect data on this condition as part of their ongoing commitment to improvement. However, I totally disagreed to their answer and that the truth is that they don't know how to fix it, unless tearing down completely the transmission to find out what the cause is! I feel it is a safety problem as explained by a top transmission repair shop: "In most cases, a loud, grunting or grinding noise when accelerating from 1st to 2nd gear would likely be considered a defect that substantially impairs the vehicle's use and could also affect safety, particularly under the context of Oregon's Lemon Law. Here's why: •Impact on Use: Grinding and grunting noises suggest that the transmission is not functioning properly, according to Top Notch Transmissions. This makes the vehicle less reliable and less enjoyable to drive. If the problem persists or worsens, it can hinder the vehicle's ability to operate safely and effectively, potentially leading to hard or delayed shifting, or even transmission failure."

POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

2024-12-15

The day after purchase, with 216 miles on the odometer, a major failure of the hybrid electrical system occurred. The car immediately shut down, not allowing the car to be moved (it could not be shifted out of "Park"). The message indicated that a high voltage leakage was detected and that the system was hazardous. It required a tow to the dealer. The dealer's service center cleared the error and refused to take further action. If this should happen again, on a busy street, serious injury could result.

TIRES (1 complaints)

TIRES

1 complaint

2025-12-16

Premature tire tread wear on 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV equipped with OEM Falken tires. At 21,586 miles, an authorized Mazda dealer measured tread depths at 5/32, 5/32, 4/32, and 3/32 (rear tire at replacement threshold). This level of wear is abnormal for the mileage and creates a safety concern due to reduced wet traction and hydroplaning risk. Dealer inspection dated 12/16/2025. Mazda USA case number 00394959.

When Do 2025 Mazda CX-90 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

0–1,000 milesHybrid system malfunctions

1,000–2,000 milesBrake squeaking

Best & Worst Mazda CX-90 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Mazda CX-90 Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Mazda CX-90 year is 2026 with a reliability score of 72/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (63/100) and 2024 (38/100).

Top Pick

Good

2026

0Recalls

0Complaints

Good

2025

(Current Model)

2Recalls

21Complaints

Risky

2024

11Recalls

259Complaints

Mazda CX-90 Years to Avoid

The worst Mazda CX-90 year is 2024 with a score of 38/100, primarily due to steering (77) issues.

Risky

2024

11Recalls

259Complaints

See full Mazda CX-90 years-to-avoid analysis

Mazda CX-90 Reliability Score Trend

Mazda CX-90 reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 68/100 compared to 38/100 for older years.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Mazda CX-90 reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2024	38/100	Risky
2025	63/100	Good
2026	72/100	Good

Mazda CX-90 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	72/100	+9	Good	0	0
2025(selected)	63/100	+25	Good	2	21
2024	38/100	—	Risky	11	259

2025 Mazda CX-90 Reliability by Powertrain

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 is available with 2powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.

Reliability comparison across powertrain options
Powertrain	Complaints	Recalls	Incidents*	Crash Rating
Gas	8	2	0	5 out of 5
PHEV	13	0	1	5 out of 5
Total	21	2	1

NHTSA tracks complaints by vehicle configuration when that detail is available. Model-level reports that do not identify a specific powertrain are included in Total but not assigned to a row. A plus sign indicates a confirmed minimum; — means no complaints could be attributed to that specific powertrain. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.

* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2025 Mazda CX-90 reliable?

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 63/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 21 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2025 Mazda CX-90?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2025 Mazda CX-90 include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5 complaints), STEERING (3 complaints), VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints), FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints), ENGINE (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2025 Mazda CX-90 have?

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2025 Mazda CX-90 expensive to maintain?

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 should have average maintenance costs for its class. With a reliability score of 63/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2025 Mazda CX-90 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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